VariCAD

What is VariCAD?

VariCAD provides solid‑modeling and drafting tools aimed at mechanical engineers. It first appeared in the early 2000s and has been sold as a proprietary product, with a Linux binary alongside the Windows version. The code base is mature but updates have become sparse in recent years.

The program targets engineers and designers who need parametric parts, assemblies, and detailed drawings without the cost of high‑end CAD suites. Its interface mimics classic Windows CAD tools, so users familiar with AutoCAD or other legacy systems feel at home.

Compared with Autodesk AutoCAD, VariCAD offers a narrower feature set—no advanced surface modeling or BIM—but it covers the core 2D drafting and 3D solid functions most mechanical projects require. The Linux version runs natively, avoiding the need for Wine, though it lacks the polish of newer open‑source alternatives.

Best for: Small‑to‑medium mechanical design projects where a low‑cost, native‑Linux CAD tool is preferred over a full‑blown commercial suite.

Key features of VariCAD

• 2D drafting with layers, blocks and dimensioning
• 3D solid modeling (extrude, revolve, sweep)
• Parametric constraints and sketch‑based design
• Assembly creation and Bill‑of‑Materials export
• DWG/DXF import‑export for basic compatibility
• PDF and image export for documentation
• Scriptable via Python for automation
• Cross‑platform binaries for Linux and Windows

Tips for Windows users

When moving from AutoCAD, start by opening your DWG or DXF files directly in VariCAD; the import handles most 2D geometry but may lose complex entities. Keyboard shortcuts are similar (e.g., L for line, C for circle) but not identical—check the shortcut editor to remap common keys. Expect a more manual workflow for assembly constraints and BOM generation, and consider using the built‑in Python console to automate repetitive tasks.